GIGA Institute of Asian Studies

Asia is the most populous, and arguably most heterogeneous, continent in the world. In recent years, it has experienced rapid development. China is now the second largest economy in the world, while the middle class in India is growing rapidly. Furthermore, many other countries on the continent have become important economic and political actors. There are, however, obvious international tensions and social challenges confronting large parts of the region. In short, Asia is undergoing radical change.

The GIGA Institute of Asian Studies (IAS) has been analysing political, economic, and social developments in Asia since 1956. Our regional focal points include Greater China, India, Southeast Asia, Japan, and the Korean Peninsula. At the heart of IAS research are topics related to political regimes and party systems, conflicts and their management, migration and social policy, innovation and direct investment, and regional powers. The institute’s findings represent an important source of knowledge for decision makers from the private and public sectors.

The IAS is one of the leading European institutes of Asian Studies. IAS researchers are regularly on site and work closely with local partners. Under the umbrella of the GIGA, the institute serves as the seat of the secretariat of the German Association for Asian Studies (DGA) and is a partner of the European Alliance for Asian Studies (Asia Alliance). As part of its international cooperation efforts, the IAS publishes the peer-reviewed Journal of Current Chinese Affairs and Journal of Current Southeast Asian Affairs.